Michael Jackson's musical tastes were as diverse as they were influential. From silent film scores to rap, soul, and disco, the King of Pop's favorite songs spanned genres and eras. Here's a closer look at seven of his favorite tracks and why they resonated with him.
"The Sound of Music" by Rodgers and Hammerstein: Jackson's love for show tunes was evident in his appreciation for Rodgers and Hammerstein's masterpiece. He was particularly drawn to the iconic opening, but his fondness extended to nearly everything the songwriting duo produced. From "Oklahoma!" to "The King and I," Jackson recognized the timeless appeal and masterful scores of these celebrated works.
"It Wasn't Me" by Shaggy: Jackson's musical interests knew no bounds, and his love for Shaggy's "It Wasn't Me" from the 2000 album Hot Shot is a testament to that. According to Shaggy, Jackson even spoke to him about the song, highlighting its unexpected place in the King of Pop's playlist. This track's catchy rhythm and clever lyrics likely contributed to its repeat play on MJ's playlist.
"Night Fever" by the Bee Gees: Jackson's deep admiration for disco is well-documented, and the Bee Gees were at the forefront of that movement. He once admitted to "crying" to their songs, particularly "Night Fever." The influence of disco is evident in several of Jackson's own tracks, solidifying the Bee Gees' impact on his musical journey.
"Smile" by Charlie Chaplin: Jackson's appreciation for lyrics was evident, but he also recognized the power of music without words. Chaplin's arrangement of "Smile" from the 1936 silent film Modern Times captivated Jackson. He loved the song so much that he recorded his own rendition in 1995, showcasing his ability to appreciate the essence of a melody beyond lyrics.
"What's Going On" by Marvin Gaye: Jackson's admiration for Marvin Gaye was evident in his youth, and he named Gaye's 1971 album What's Going On as one of his all-time favorites. The soulful tracks on this album, including the title track and "Inner City Blues," resonated with Jackson. However, Gaye reportedly felt overshadowed by the young star during the 1983 Motown 25 TV special, highlighting the complex dynamics between artists of different generations.
"California Dreamin'" by The Mamas & The Papas: Jackson's fascination with catchy tunes is evident in his love for The Mamas & The Papas' "California Dreamin'." Released in the late 1960s, this folk-rock song told a story of longing and escape. Jackson's own hits often reflected a similar storytelling approach, and this song's impact on his musical journey is undeniable.
"Living for the City" by Stevie Wonder: Jackson held Stevie Wonder in the highest regard, calling him "ingenious." He specifically mentioned "Living for the City," but his appreciation extended to Wonder's funk-inspired albums. Jackson's admiration for Wonder's music inspired him to take his own career to new heights, demonstrating the power of artistic influence.
Michael Jackson's diverse musical tastes and appreciation for a wide range of genres and styles continue to shape his legacy. From show tunes to disco, soul to rap, his favorite songs offer a glimpse into his artistic journey and the influences that shaped his iconic sound.
